What is Niacinamide in Skin Care and How to Use it
Although many people still have Vitamin C, retinol, and glycolic acid on their wishlists for bright and glowy skin, recently a new It skin-care ingredient has taken the fame. We know that plenty of products found themselves to be just a part of a beauty buzz, but according to many dermatologists, it shouldn’t be the case with Vitamin B3, also known as niacinamide.
Since we have already determined what retinol, peptides, and Vitamin C can do to your skin, now is time to learn more about niacinamide in skin care. First things first - what is niacinamide in skin care?
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What is Niacinamide in Skin Care?
There are eight B vitamins in our body that we need for normal cell function and good health. Vitamin B3, known as niacin is converted into the body to niacinamide and becomes crucial for healthy and glowy skin. It also has anti-inflammatory properties.
Niacinamide is water-soluble which makes it a perfect candidate for inclusion in topical skincare products like serums. Since our bodies are not producing vitamin B3, the ingredient is found in many creams that can be applied after gentle cleansing.
Nicotinamide, Niacinamide, and Nicotinic Acid - What is the Difference?
You wouldn’t be the first to ask - what is the difference between all those vitamin B3 monikers? Nicotinamide is amid, particular chemical structure, and a form of vitamin B3. What you should know is that it is not niacin, an acid form of this vitamin.
On the other hand, niacin is easily found in drugstores, yet it has a side effect, causing your face to become red and flushed. Be careful when you are buying a product with niacinamide. If it doesn’t have -amide in its name then don’t buy it.
Vitamin B3 Benefits
One of the main things about niacinamide is the plethora of benefits. From restoring and anti-inflammatory properties to healthy and glowy skin.
Prevention of Skin Cancer
One of the main benefits of vitamin B3 is reducing the effects of harmful UV rays, as well as preventing skin cancer. According to the study done in 2015, the group that was taking 500mg of oral niacinamide hasn’t shown new cases of skin cancer.
Whether you decide to take niacinamide orally or topically through a cream or serum, this doesn’t mean it can absolutely stop skin cancer. However, the results are clearly showing that it can be helpful. Don’t forget to wear sunscreen.
Defeating Acne, Rosacea, and Other Inflammatory Conditions
Due to niacinamide’s anti-inflammatory properties, it became popular in acne, eczema, and rosacea treatment. One research showed that niacinamide may potentially inhibit the production of oil, and that is why it is very effective in acne treatments.
Since vitamin B3 preserves hydration, it is becoming more and more attractive to those with sensitive and dry skin, alongside these skin problems (acne, eczema).
Reduces Pigmentation, Fine Lines, and Wrinkles
Niacinamide is also very effective in treating and reducing hyperpigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles. However, vitamin B3 alone won’t do anything in particular, and that is why you should combine it with other ingredients, such as Vitamin C.
Both of these ingredients can fight off internal and external stressors, making the skin look healthier with less visible wrinkles, fine lines, and pigmentation.
Side Effects of Using Niacinamide
Although a very powerful ingredient to make your skin look beautiful, niacinamide also has some side effects. In fact, don’t overuse it. When it is used in high concentrations it can cause skin irritations, redness, or even dermatitis. Dermatologists recommend using low concentrations of vitamin B3 - 1-2% would be just enough for your skin to glow.
How to Use Niacinamide
This powerful and It ingredient is found in serums, moisturizers, even sunscreens. But the question is - which one of these products is the best and how to use them in your daily routine?
While some dermatologists believe serums with niacinamide are the most effective for skin, others claim the same can be achieved with moisturizers as well.
Serums can deliver a high concentration of active ingredients so they can be your choice. Moreover, niacinamide is water-soluble so it is better absorbed into the skin through a water-based serum.
Gymsegbe Mighty Punch serum is highly concentrated and lightweight serum with niacinamide. Its powerful combination of ingredients will reduce lines, wrinkles, and make your skin glowy.
You can also get niacinamide from moisturizers. Our Gem in the Bottle Night moisturizer is power-packed with niacinamide and licorice root extract that will work miracles on your skin while you sleep.
